"In less than two weeks the pros go back. The professionals do all the professional routines. So we have a month where we go in every day to learn a new dance and then we meet the celebrities. When I find out who my celebrity is, it's legit on camera and on TV, so it's very exciting."

Big changes are afoot on this years' show, with new judge Motsi Mabuse revealed just the other day. Motsi is the older sister of Strictly pro Oti Mabuse, and is taking over from Dame Darcey Bussell.

"I am absolutely overjoyed to be joining the Strictly judging panel," she said. "I have so much respect and admiration for the other three judges and hope to add my own bit of sparkle to the show. I can't wait to get started."

The bookies are placing Anton as their favourite, with former Strictly professional Karen Hardy not far behind.

However also rumoured to be in the running is pro dancer Oti Mabuse, who was a coach on BBC's The Greatest Dancer.

A source at the BBC dance show has revealed that "loveable Anton" is the "cast's favourite choice" and some believe "it’s time for him to hang up his dancing shoes and sit on the other side of the table."

There was a back-handed compliment about Anton's dance skills thrown in, with the source calling him a "well-loved professional" but pointed out that "his glory years are over.''

She wrote, ''It has been a complete privilege for me to be part of Strictly, working with such a talented team. I have enjoyed every minute of my time and will miss everyone from my fellow judges, the presenters, the dancers, the musicians, the entire backstage team, and especially the viewers of the show, who have been so supportive.''

She continued, ''I am not leaving because of any upset or disagreement at all, I am just stepping away to give more focus to my many other commitments in dance, after seven truly wonderful years that I can’t imagine having gone any better.''

She added, ''I know I will miss being part of this unique show and the fact that it celebrates dance is something I am so passionate about. I hope that I may be very lucky to be asked back again one day."

Her fans were shocked and saddened at the announcement.

One said, ''Oh nooooo!! I’m so gutted that you are leaving!! Strictly won’t seem the same without! Best of luck with future projects.''

While another wrote, ''That is such a shame – you have brought so much to the show.''

Strictly will be waltzing back onto BBC One this autumn for its 17th series but we have a feeling that it won't quite be the same without one of favourite judges.